The Black Magic Pocket Cinema 6K was released about two months ago in August 2019. Since then, it has been a popular commodity. So, why are these cameras flying off the shelves? Below we’ll list eight reasons why this new cinema camera is all the rage.
First things first, it’s important to look at this camera as a cinema camera, not a DSLR, or a hybrid mirrorless camera. It doesn’t have IBIS, a flip or articulating screen, it needs some sort of power solution along with some type of monitor and it’s best operated using manual focus, which, if you think about it, is the case for most cinema cameras. Once you take this camera for what it is—a cinema camera—you’ll understand how incredible it is.
1. Super 35 Sensor
In the cinema world, the standard sensor size is the Super 35 frame. The previous Black Magic Pocket Cinema 4k had a micro four-thirds sensor, so with this upgrade, you’re getting a slightly larger sensor and competing with most of the cinema cameras out there. Plus, with the Super 35 sensor, you’re able to shoot with a shallow depth of field and use anamorphic lenses.
2. EF Mount
With the Canon EF mount, you have access to a large range of Canon lenses. Canon glass is one of the most popular and highly rated. Plus, if you already have Canon EF lenses from your DSLR, it saves you the money of having to purchase all new lenses.
3. Apple ProRes 4:2:2 Internal
Apple ProRes RAW is a codec created by Apple which is used to compress or decompress video. Without these codecs, the information coming from your camera sensor would be huge. ProRes creates a much larger file then the typical H.264 but it is much easier on your system when editing. Most cameras can’t record video directly to ProRes internally BUT with the Black Magic Pocket Cinema 6K, you can.
4. Black Magic 6K RAW to External SSD Drive
Black Magic RAW is Black Magic’s own version of a RAW codec. With Blackmagic RAW, you get the same quality, bit depth, dynamic range and controls as RAW, with better performance and even smaller file sizes than traditional video codecs.
5. 13 Stops of Dynamic Range
Having a wide dynamic range is one of the key factors in achieving a cinematic look. With 13 stops of dynamic range, filmmakers will be able to capture more detail in the lightest and darkest parts of their image. Plus, with Dual Native 400 and 3200 ISO to 25,600, the Black Magic Pocket Cinema 6K Camera is capable of exceptional low-light performance.
6. 5" Touchscreen
The 5” touchscreen displays valuable information such as a histogram, focus and peaking indicators, levels, frame guides, playback controls and more. The only downfall is while working in direct sunlight, the screen can be hard to see. For better visibility, you can increase the brightness to 100 percent. This will quickly drain your battery but if you use the camera’s power connector, it can be charged with a V-mount battery. Keep in mind, that if you want to get the most accurate display of colors, we recommend purchasing a color-accurate external monitor such as the Atomos Ninja V.
7. Davinci Resolve
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K includes a full version of DaVinci Resolve Studio, which is the same software used in Hollywood for creating high-end feature films, television shows, commercials and more.
8. Price Point
With everything this camera comes with and for the image quality it puts out, for only $2,500, it’s the best deal on the market. You’re getting features that you would typically find in cinema cameras that are almost six times the price.
For professional, "Hollywood" style videos at a fraction of the price, the Black Magic Pocket Cinema 6K Camera, is the best option out there.